Trails Coordinator

Job Overview

Season: June through October 2022, some hourly contract work may be available prior to June based on availability and project need.

Job Description: The Trails Coordinator with the Squam Lakes Association (SLA) will function as on-the-ground guidance for trail crews of the Old Bridle Path project. The Trails Coordinator will report directly to the Director of Trails and Access and work closely with several partner organizations, contractors, volunteers, and AmeriCorps crews. The primary project the Trails Coordinator will work on is the Old Bridle Path project located in Holderness, New Hampshire, which is the Squam Lakes Region’s most popular trail. The position will require significant attention to detail, an ability to foster a strong team dynamic, and an enthusiasm for sharing trail maintenance and trail building knowledge with crew members, volunteers, and the public.

Responsibilities:

• Coordinate and oversee on-the-ground work for the Old Bridle Path project and additional trail maintenance and construction projects.
• Train crews and volunteers with varying levels of experience on trail maintenance and construction, including proper and safe use of ground and cutting trail maintenance tools.
• Assist the Director of Trails and Access with identifying and securing contractors for trail building and trail design.
• Manage trail crews to ensure a safe work environment and quality trail work in the field.
• Implement projects with high attention to detail using levels, measuring tape, and chalk lines.
• Supervise and assist with the construction of trail structures like staircases, drainages, bridges, and retaining walls.
• Work in partnership with AmeriCorps programs including the Student Conservation Association and the Lakes Region Conservation Corps, and community groups.
• Communicate with the Director of Trails and Access on project needs and crew morale.
• Assess safety conditions on the work site and communicate and address safety concerns with crew members and the Director of Trails and Access.
• Survey trail maintenance needs and develop solutions to address needs on trails throughout the Squam watershed.
• Safely and effectively use a chainsaw when necessary for drainage or retaining wall construction.
• Work to reduce impact of worksite and conduct all work in the most sustainable manner.
• Act as an ambassador for the Squam Lakes Association and engage with the public on questions about trail maintenance and the Old Bridle Path project.
• Some hourly contracted work may be available prior to June based on availability and need.

To Apply

Applications should include a letter of interest, a resume, and contact information for three references who can speak to your professional skills. Please send your application information in the form of a PDF to the attention of Katri Gurney by emailing [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed as they are received. Position is open until filled.

The SLA is an equal opportunity employer. The SLA will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis including, but not limited to: sex, race, color, religion, national heritage, physical or mental handicaps, or sexual preferences.

Special Benefits

Salary/Benefits: $17-20/hour. Wilderness First Aid certification. SLA benefits include use of rental canoes and kayaks, discount on campsite rentals on Squam Lake, and SLA store discount.

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications:

• Must be a minimum of 18 years old by start date.
• Willingness to undergo a criminal background check.
• CPR Certification & Wilderness First Aid (SLA provides a WFA pre-season course).
• Experience with trail design and construction with an eye for quality-controlling trail structures and sustainable trail design.
• Experience working with and coordinating private contractors.
• Experience installing retaining walls, check-steps, and drainages with a high attention to detail and using sustainable methods.
• Experience with felling of moderate difficulty including ability to plan for and navigate hang-ups, directional felling, and side/forward leaning trees.
• USFS Level B Sawyer/Game of Logging #3 or ability to complete training prior to start date.
• Ability to carry heavy loads (50+ lbs.) for long distances over rugged terrain.
• Ability to work with, train, and supervise trail crews and volunteers.
• Ability to set goals, prioritize tasks, assign roles to a group, assess needs, and manage tasks.
• Ability to work outside in all types of weather.
• Ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds.
• Commitment to sustainable trail maintenance and outdoor recreation practices.
• Good judgment, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience in providing and receiving feedback and creating a culture of learning and growth.